John Cornelius

Welcome!

My name is John Cornelius and I am the AP Stats teacher here at North Haven High School.

I'm a dedicated mathematics teacher specializing in Statistics L2 and AP Statistics. With over ten years of teaching experience in cities like Bridgeport and New Haven, I now have the pleasure of working with the North Haven community. I earned my undergraduate degree in Applied Actuarial Mathematics (a field that uses mathematical and statistical methods to assess and manage risk, particularly in finance and insurance) from Bryant University and hold a Master's in Teaching from Sacred Heart University, which have both shaped my passion for education and commitment to student success.

In my classroom, I strive to create an environment that not only nurtures a deep understanding of mathematical concepts but also equips students with the skills to think critically and work independently. I’m excited to share my love for statistics, real-life applications, and cross-disciplinary learning with your children. Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me—I look forward to a wonderful school year ahead!

Educational Philosophy

My teaching philosophy is centered on cultivating independent and critical thinkers. I believe that learning goes beyond memorizing formulas or solving routine problems—instead, it’s about equipping students with the skills necessary to manage their time effectively, develop disciplined work habits, and critically evaluate information. In today’s world, where even reputable sources may not always provide accurate information, teaching students to assess the trustworthiness of a source is paramount. I encourage my students to ask questions, verify data, and think deeply about the material they encounter.

Classroom Environment

In my classroom, the goal is to create a supportive and engaging learning atmosphere where math and test anxiety are minimized. I see my role not just as an instructor, but as a guide who helps students become the best version of themselves. To this end, I integrate real-life applications into lessons—students are often given opportunities to collect and analyze their own data, making abstract concepts tangible. Moreover, I seek out cross-disciplinary activities by collaborating with other classes, which helps students see the broader applications of statistical methods and mathematical reasoning.

Professional Development

To continually improve my teaching and stay updated with the latest educational strategies, I have participated in numerous professional development sessions. I’ve attended workshops on IXL, project-based learning, and curriculum design, as well as specialized PD sessions focused on AP courses like AP Statistics and Calculus at Taft over the summer. These experiences have enriched my instructional practices and enabled me to create a dynamic, student-centered classroom.